CameraReview

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS M6
Canon
Canon EOS M6
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
63
SCORE
$363.84
best of 1 retailer
Best Price →
Sony a6000
Sony
Sony a6000
Mirrorless · 24.3 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
57
SCORE
$401.84
best of 5 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS M6a6000
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20172014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
15/02/201712/02/2014
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 112 x 68 x 45 mm120 x 67 x 45 mm
Camera weight 540 g344 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
14.9 x 22.315.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
9 fps04511 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF-MSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 7Bionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
256003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
100302005030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
4903001790300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
NoneElectronic
Viewfinder dots N/A144000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10801920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MP4MPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009216001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E17NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
295 shots1505000360 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS M6 outperforms the Sony a6000 with a score of 63/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched at similar price points, with the M6 at $780 and the a6000 at $799. They share the same camera depth of 45mm, but the M6 is slightly smaller and heavier at 112 x 68 x 45mm and 540g, while the a6000 measures 120 x 67 x 45mm and weighs 344g.

The Canon EOS M6’s higher score reflects its superior performance in certain aspects. However, the Sony a6000 has its own advantages, such as its lighter weight, making it more portable for photographers on the go.

Taking these specifications into account, the Canon EOS M6 stands out as the better option for those prioritizing performance, while the Sony a6000 is a suitable choice for those seeking a lighter camera.

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6000 wins the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, while the Canon EOS M6 scores 65/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. However, there are differences that set them apart in terms of performance and quality.

The Sony a6000 has an edge over the Canon EOS M6 with a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.3 compared to 24.2. Additionally, the Sony a6000 features a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second (fps) compared to the Canon EOS M6’s 9 fps. The Sony a6000 also boasts a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 82, while the Canon EOS M6 scores 78. These factors contribute to the Sony a6000’s superior performance in capturing detailed and high-quality images.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M6 has its own unique advantages. It uses the Digic 7 processor, which allows for faster processing of images and improved low-light performance. The Canon EOS M6 also features the Canon EF-M lens mount, which provides compatibility with a wide range of Canon lenses. This allows photographers to use their existing Canon lenses and expand their lens options for different shooting scenarios.

Taking into account the differences in specifications, the Sony a6000 emerges as the winner in terms of optics performance due to its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and superior DXOMARK sensor score. However, the Canon EOS M6 offers the advantage of a powerful processor and a versatile lens mount, making it a strong contender for photographers who prioritize lens compatibility and low-light performance.

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M6 outperforms the Sony a6000 in video capabilities with a video score of 70/100, compared to the Sony a6000’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as Full HD max video resolution, max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and a max video frame rate of 60fps.

The Canon EOS M6 surpasses the Sony a6000 with its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos directly within the camera, without needing additional software or equipment. This advantage sets the Canon EOS M6 apart from the Sony a6000, as it offers more creative options for videographers.

On the other hand, the Sony a6000 does not have any specific video features that make it better than the Canon EOS M6. Both cameras have identical video specifications, aside from the M6’s time-lapse functionality. Therefore, it is clear that the Canon EOS M6 is the superior choice for video capabilities.

When comparing the Canon EOS M6 and the Sony a6000, it is evident that the Canon EOS M6 is the better choice for videographers due to its higher video score and built-in time-lapse functionality. While both cameras share similar video specifications, the added time-lapse feature in the Canon EOS M6 makes it a more versatile and creative option for those looking to capture high-quality videos.

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M6 outperforms the Sony a6000 in terms of features, scoring 70/100 compared to the Sony a6000’s 41/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Canon EOS M6 has additional features that make it the superior choice.

The Canon EOS M6 has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the Sony a6000’s 921,600 dots. This results in a clearer and more detailed display on the Canon EOS M6. Additionally, the Canon EOS M6 features a touchscreen, allowing for easier navigation and control of the camera’s settings. The Sony a6000 lacks this feature.

Furthermore, the Canon EOS M6 has Bluetooth connectivity, which enables seamless transfer of images to other devices and remote control of the camera. The Sony a6000 does not offer this feature. This makes the Canon EOS M6 more versatile and user-friendly.

Despite having a lower feature score, the Sony a6000 does have one advantage over the Canon EOS M6: its flip screen. Both cameras have flip screens, but the Sony a6000’s screen can be flipped upwards, making it more convenient for taking selfies or capturing low-angle shots. The Canon EOS M6’s screen flips downwards, which may not be as practical in some situations.

The higher feature score of the Canon EOS M6 reflects its superiority in terms of screen resolution, touchscreen functionality, and Bluetooth connectivity. These advantages make it a better choice for those seeking a camera with more advanced features. However, the Sony a6000’s flip screen design may appeal to some users, despite its lower overall feature score.

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6000 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 in storage and battery with a score of 21/100, compared to the M6’s 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the a6000 has an advantage as it also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards.

In terms of battery life, the Sony a6000 lasts longer, providing 360 shots per charge, while the Canon EOS M6 offers 295 shots. Both cameras use different battery types: the a6000 uses the NP-FW50, and the M6 uses the LP-E17. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Despite the lower score, the Canon EOS M6 still provides adequate storage and battery life for casual photography. However, the Sony a6000’s longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility make it the better option in this category.

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M6 vs Sony a6000 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS M6 or the Sony a6000: